The Volkswagen Amarok will feature an eight-speed automatic transmission system for the 2012 model year. The 2012 Amarok will be the first model year to be fitted with an automatic transmission system since its launch in 2009. This transmission system has been adapted from the Touareg SUV.

However, this transmission system is only offered with one engine choice. It will be fitted to the range topping version of the existing 2.0 twin-turbo TDI producing 180 horsepower and 310 lb-ft (420Nm) of torque. This model is the new flagship model and has been dubbed as the TDI420. Apart from the flagship, the Amarok line will be offered with a 163 horsepower version of the same engine. The 122 horsepower entry level TDI has been dropped from the lineup.

To reduce emissions and increase the fuel economy, Volkswagen has incorporated BlueMotion technology in the 180 horsepower engine, which includes a Start and Stop system and low-rolling resistance tires. The new engine has also increased the towing capacity to up to 3175 kg braked in comparison to 2800 kg for the current configuration.

Volkswagen has revealed that the TDI420 has a fuel economy of 31 mpg in the mixed European cycle. This makes the pickup more efficient than a comparable model equipped with a manual transmission. The 2012 Amarok will be available in three trim levels: Startline, Trendline and Highline and is expected to arrive in the market in January 2012. The pricing is yet to be announced by the automaker.

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